Section CLX [summary]
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CLX including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
A Brahmana and his wife are faced with the threat of a Rakshasa who demands a human sacrifice. The wife, displaying great courage and selflessness, offers to sacrifice herself to protect her husband and children from harm. She argues that as a woman, her duty is to serve her husband and family, even at the cost of her own life. The Brahmana is deeply moved by his wife's sacrifice and they both share a moment of silent grief before the inevitable sacrifice. Despite their sorrow, the wife's bravery and selflessness shine through in the face of danger.
Full English translation:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated. If you are looking for authentic sources such as the Sanskrit text or the Full English translation of Mahabharata Section CLX, have a look at the following articles:
Section CLX, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Section CLX:
What was the wife's reasoning for sacrificing herself to a Rakshasa?
The wife believed that sacrificing herself would protect her husband and children from harm. She reasoned that as a woman, she could not face the dangers ahead.
How did the Brahmana and his wife react to the situation?
Both the Brahmana and his wife wept in silence, deeply afflicted by grief at the thought of sacrificing themselves to protect their family.
Why did the wife feel it was her duty to sacrifice herself?
The wife believed that sacrificing herself was the highest virtue and would bring happiness and fame to her husband. She also wanted to protect her children from potential danger.
Mahabharata Section CLX in daily life:
The story encapsulates the depth of sacrifice and selflessness inherent in personal relationships, particularly emphasizing the lengths to which one may go for the well-being of their loved ones. In implementing this in daily life, it's crucial to recognize the importance of putting the needs of our family and close ones before our own, especially in dire circumstances. This doesn't mean engaging in extreme sacrifices as narrated, but rather adopting an attitude of care, understanding, and support for those we hold dear.
At the heart of this narrative is the concept that true strength in relationships lies in our ability to prioritize others' happiness and safety over our personal desires and comfort. It teaches us to nurture our relationships with compassion, empathy, and a readiness to offer help and encouragement during tough times. By being considerate of the challenges faced by those around us and showing readiness to support them, we not only strengthen our bonds but also foster a nurturing and supportive environment.
Moreover, the story highlights the concept of moral and ethical responsibility towards our family, suggesting that our actions should always aim at the greater good of our loved ones. It encourages an attitude of self-reflection on how our decisions impact those around us and calls for a life lived with integrity, where personal sacrifices for the betterment of others are valued.
In summary, through nurturing our relationships with empathy, support, and a selfless attitude, we can bring about a positive change in our lives and the lives of those around us. Living with a sense of responsibility towards the well-being of our loved ones fosters a community of care, mutual respect, and enduring love.